The angular relationships between planets in your birth chart
Aspects are the angles formed between planets in your birth chart, representing the relationships between different parts of your personality. These geometric relationships reveal how the energies of the planets interact with each other, creating harmony or tension in your psyche.
Aspects wheel illustration placeholder
Aspects are measured in degrees of separation along the ecliptic. Each type of aspect has a specific angular relationship and a unique influence on how planetary energies blend together.
When two planets are in the same place in the sky, their energies blend and intensify each other. Conjunctions create a powerful focus of energy in the area of life represented by the house they occupy.
Nature: Neutral (depends on the planets involved)
Example: Sun conjunct Mercury often indicates a person whose thinking and communication style is closely aligned with their core identity.
When two planets are on opposite sides of the chart, they create a polarity or tension. Oppositions represent awareness through relationships and the need to balance opposing forces.
Nature: Challenging (but can be dynamic)
Example: Moon opposite Saturn might indicate emotional needs (Moon) that conflict with responsibilities and limitations (Saturn).
When planets are 120 degrees apart, they create a harmonious flow of energy. Trines represent natural talents, ease, and harmony between the planetary energies involved.
Nature: Harmonious
Example: Venus trine Jupiter often indicates a natural ability to attract abundance, social connections, and pleasant experiences.
When planets are 90 degrees apart, they create internal tension and challenges. Squares represent obstacles that must be overcome, but they also provide motivation for growth.
Nature: Challenging
Example: Mars square Pluto might indicate power struggles and intense conflicts that ultimately lead to transformation.
When planets are 60 degrees apart, they create opportunities for growth. Sextiles represent potential talents that can be developed with some effort.
Nature: Harmonious
Example: Mercury sextile Uranus might indicate an ability to think innovatively and express unique ideas when the opportunity arises.
Creates an awkward relationship between planets that requires adjustment and adaptation.
A mild aspect that indicates a subtle connection between planetary energies.
Creates mild tension and irritation that can motivate action.
Similar to the semi-square but with more external manifestation of tension.
When analyzing aspects in your birth chart, consider:
Remember that challenging aspects aren't necessarily "bad" - they often provide the motivation and tension needed for growth and achievement. Harmonious aspects, while pleasant, can sometimes lead to complacency if not actively utilized.
Understanding the aspects in your birth chart provides insight into the complex interplay of different parts of your personality and life experience. They reveal where energies flow easily and where you might experience internal or external challenges.